Gift of Conversations

I consider myself an introvert, but the trouble with labels like this is they can be too constrictive. I love solo work. Writing requires stretches of uninterrupted “alone” time. A large portion of my day job is also solitary work.

This week felt different for me. I was blessed to take part in many different types of conversations and enjoyed them all.

I had the opportunity to give a book talk at a local retirement community on Monday afternoon, something I enjoy doing and a great example of where a label I’ve given myself doesn’t always fit. I enjoy speaking in front of a group, especially when the topic is something I’m passionate about. Afterward, I spoke individually with some of the attendees. One delightful woman shared how she’d been writing devotionals for years, inspiring many through her ministry. She admitted she doesn’t do much writing anymore. I encouraged her to start again. The world needs more positive inspiration. Another woman warned me reading is losing its appeal in today’s world of movies and computers, insinuating I’m wasting my time writing books. I didn’t take offense. Everyone is entitled to their own opinions but I did feel bad for her. It can’t be fun, going through life feeling inclined to dim other people’s light.

On Tuesday evening I was treated to a delightful dinner and conversation with two new friends. Their book club read my novel and wanted to discuss it with me. While I thoroughly enjoyed our discussion about the book, I was inspired by the stories they shared as the conversation evolved. They each talked about the stages they are at in their own lives and shared some inspiring projects they and their grown children are pursuing. It was a reminder to me of how much we all have in common but, at the same time, how unique everyone’s individual stories are when we take the time to listen and to share.

Sticking to my goal of taking a bit more “me” time in 2018, I spent Thursday afternoon at a local event called “Beyond Possible” hosted by an incredibly talented and motivating speaker and coach by the name of Teresa Lewis. Teresa led us through an afternoon of lively group discussion coupled with quiet reflection time. A few people knew each other, but for the most part, it was a room full of strangers. Sharing was encouraged and I could feel the positive energy rising in the room as the afternoon progressed. This was my kind of group! Despite challenges and setbacks, all of these people felt compelled to make some part of their life better. Find people like this in your own local community. Spend time with people that understand life can be hard but it is within our power to do things to make improvements.

Teresa shared many wonderful ideas and concepts, too many to mention here, but one list related to mindset really resonated with me. She talked about a team that embarked on an extensive study to try to determine what sets happy and successful people apart. Their work resulted in the following seven key mindsets:

1. Everything is Possible
2. Passion First
3. We are Connected
4. 100% Accountable
5. Attitude of Gratitude
6. Live to Give
7. The Time is Now

While we discussed each of these mindsets throughout the afternoon, I want to dig deeper and will follow Teresa’s suggestion to read “The 7 Mindsets to Live your Ultimate Life” by Scott Shickler and Jeff Waller.

If you have the opportunity to attend local events meant to inspire and encourage, please do so. The small investment of your time and money will be so worth it. If you would like to find out more about Teresa and her journey, check out her website at the link below. 

In addition to my book related work and self-development efforts this week, I was also lucky enough to spend time with friends on two different evenings. It is amazing how the conversation flows when you get a group of women together, whether it’s around the dice tables at Bunco or following a nice dinner when the guys are out in the garage making deer sausage.

Connecting with others feeds our souls. My post today isn’t meant to be a rehash of a full week but rather a reminder to us all to make time for real conversations, those that go deeper than the superficial small talk. Remember:

“Sometimes the greatest adventure is simply a conversation” by Amadeus Wolfe

The world is full of wonderful people out there, find the time to get out and visit with them.   Kim

click here to check out Teresa's site